The annual doggy swim event will be split over two days on 5 and 6 April at Waltham and Templeton Summer Pools.

Christchurch City Council Head of Recreation, Sports and Events Nigel Cox says the pool parties are always a hit and are ever-growing in popularity. 

“The events are a great way to mark the end of summer and we know it’s a much loved day out for the whole family.”

“Last year we had a record 893 dogs take the plunge, and it’s shaping up to be another huge weekend for 2025,” Mr Cox says.  

Sponsored by Joe’s Garage, the Waltham session will be on 5 April with session times depending on your pooch’s size. Small dogs (up to 46cm) can jump in from 9 – 10.30am, medium dogs (46 – 64cm) from 11am – 12.30pm, large dogs (over 64cm) from 1 – 2.30pm, and an open session with no size limit will be from 3 – 4.30pm. 

Templeton Summer Pool will be open to all dogs on Sunday 6 April from 10am – midday. 

Mr Cox says it’s recommended dog’s attend the session best suited to their size. 

“There’s a couple of other rules to make sure the weekend runs smoothly – no humans are allowed in the pool and there must only be one pooch per owner.”

Dogs must be vaccinated and well-behaved with other canines.

Free microchipping will be offered on site at both events to any Christchurch registered dogs and Aldwins Road Vet Clinic will be at the Waltham Party promoting their Best for Pet Clinics.

This event is run in association with the Christchurch City Council Animal Management Team who will donate all proceeds to Dogwatch Sanctuary Trust. Entry to Waltham Pool’s party is $3.80 and Templeton is a gold coin donation. 

After the events the pools will be emptied and cleaned for their winter shut down.